Becoming a Member
Membership is open to UGA students, faculty, and staff (a valid UGAcard is required for access to the Ramsey Student Physical Activities Center).
The Budokai welcomes visitors and new members regardless of previous experience. Instructors and members are committed to sharing traditional karatedo with the UGA community in an environment that is safe, respectful, and supportive for all participants.
When Can I Join?
While most new members join the club at the beginning of the Fall or Spring semesters, you are welcome to start at any time. By joining near the beginning of an academic term, you are more likely to be part of a group of new members, which can improve learning and motivation. If you join at some other time, you will receive some individualized coaching to orient you to the basics before joining group training.
To join the club, attend any scheduled practice session and introduce yourself to one of the black belts. Be sure to arrive before the start time for class so that you can complete required forms.
What Should I Wear?
T-shirts, sweats, and other ordinary workout clothes are fine for new members. Regular participants wear a clean, white gi without insignia or other ornamentation (an exception is the Ogasawara tomoe, which may be worn with the permission of instructors). The plain white gi symbolizes the equal status of all practitioners.
For safety, shoes, socks, watches, and jewelry must be removed during practice. Cellphones must be turned off in the dojo.
What Does It Cost?
Students who earn rank in the art pay modest test fees and a $25 annual registration fee to the hombu dojo in Japan. No fees are charged for class participation. In exchange for instruction, members are expected to work hard and follow dojo protocol. The Dojo Kun (Precepts of Karate Training), attributed to Sakugawa, define the basic goals and conditions of our training:
- Seek Perfection of Character
- Defend the Path of Truth
- Endeavor to Excel
- Display Courtesy
- Refrain from Violent Behavior
What If I Train in Another Style?
Students with prior martial arts training are always welcome to visit or to become members of the Budokai. Guests may wear whatever uniform and belt they typically wear in their own schools. However, those who decide to train regularly in Shorinji Ryu should follow the dress guidelines given above. With the exception of currently active students from other Ogasawara-Ha Shorinji Ryu dojos, everyone begins Shorinji Ryu training as a white belt. During the history of the club, many participants with black belt ranks in other martial arts have chosen to pursue rank in Shorinji Ryu.